Lews BB6TNH

Repair & Maintenance Guide: Lew’s Speed Spool (Vintage BB6TNH)

The Lew’s BB6TNH is a vintage classic from the "BB" era of Speed Spools. Unlike the modern SLP (Super Low Profile) models, the BB6TNH features a more traditional, robust profile and a 6.3:1 gear ratio supported by a 6-bearing system. This reel was built during an era where Lew's focused on heavy-duty brass internals and mechanical simplicity, making it a favorite for restoration enthusiasts.

Step 1: External Teardown (Right-Handed)

1. Handle Assembly: Remove the screw holding the handle nut retainer. Use a 10mm wrench to remove the handle nut (Counter-Clockwise to loosen). Remove the handle and the star drag.

2. Star Drag Components: Beneath the star, you will find the spring washers. In these vintage BB models, ensure the washers are stacked () to maintain the proper tension against the drive shaft.

3. Spool Access: On the vintage BB6 series, the side plate is typically secured by screws rather than a quick-release lever. Remove the screws on the palm-side plate to slide out the spool.

Step 2: Servicing the Vintage Gear Train

1. Opening the Gear Side: Remove the three housing screws. Note that on vintage Lew's reels, these screws can often be slightly different lengths; keep them mapped to their specific holes.

2. The Main Gear & Drag: You will find a Heavy-Duty Brass Main Gear.

    

    

   • Cleaning: Old grease in these vintage units often turns into a thick "paste" over decades. Submerge the gears in a degreaser or isopropyl alcohol and scrub with a stiff toothbrush until the brass shines.

   • Drag: The BB6TNH uses traditional drag washers. If they are flattened or brittle, replace them. If they are still flexible, wipe them clean. These older systems are best run dry or with a very light film of drag-specific grease.

3. Pinion Gear: Check the "ears" of the pinion gear. In vintage models, these can show wear from years of hard hooksets. If the teeth are rounded, your reel will slip under pressure.

Step 3: Braking & Mechanical Tension

The BB6TNH relies on a proven Mechanical/Centrifugal Braking System.

• Centrifugal Brakes: The spool has small plastic brake weights (collars). Ensure they are not cracked. If you need more braking force, ensure they are clicked "out"; for more distance, click them "in" toward the shaft.

• The Hub: Clean the metal ring inside the side plate where these weights rub. A single drop of oil on a swab, wiped around this ring, will keep the cast silent.

• Tension Knob: The brass shim inside the tension knob is a common wear point. If it has a deep "dimple" from the spool shaft, you can sometimes flip the shim over to get a fresh surface, improving your ability to tune the reel.

Step 4: Lubrication for a Classic

• Bearings: The BB6TNH features 6 ball bearings. These older bearings are often not as "fast" as modern ceramic or high-speed stainless, but they are incredibly durable. Flush them thoroughly and apply one drop of oil.

   

   

• Worm Gear: Apply a light coat of grease to the worm gear. On vintage reels, the level wind pawl (the small tooth under the worm gear) is a frequent failure point. If your line isn't stacking evenly, unscrew the pawl cap and check the tooth for wear.

• Frame: Wipe the interior of the frame to remove any oxidation or old lubricant.

BB6TNH Troubleshooting & Specs

Restoration Tips:

• Handle Back-Play: If the handle moves backward, the anti-reverse pawl or the one-way bearing (depending on the specific production year) is dirty. Clean with alcohol; do not grease.

• Polishing: Since the BB6TNH has a classic finish, you can use a bit of car wax on the external frame after cleaning to help shed water and protect the vintage paint/finish.

• Parts Availability: Many parts for the BB6 series are interchangeable with other "BB" models of that era, but always verify the part number before ordering replacements.